"washington journal" is live every day at 7:00 a.m. eastern. >> the white house was very controversial, as most things in america were. the man who designed washington city -- there was competition. he submitted a design for a palace. americans were not having a palace. it was not particularly odd inspiring. in fact, in 1821, a european diplomat told the congress it was neither large nor on inspiring. -- awe-inspiring. the congressman answered, the building served its purpose. if it were larger and more elegant, perhaps some president would be inclined to become its permanent resident. >> a former new york times book critic has gathered a few of her favorite white house photos. what sunday evening, at 7:30 eastern and pacific, on american history tv. >> the american enterprise institute heard from the incoming and outgoing chairman of the republican study committee today. they talked about what they would like to see in a tax and budget deal, and what is ahead for house republicans in the next congress. this is 50 minutes. >> i am deli